Slowly, Then Suddenly
— a phrase often used about transformation.
The moment when explosive growth happens out of nowhere.
Everyone loves the idea of an overnight success story.
But it’s a deeply flawed narrative.
Take a moment to explore nature….
Bamboo Shoots…..and Scores!
Beginning Stage: Strong Foundation
During the first few years, most bamboo develops a strong and extensive root system beneath the ground. While there may be little to no visible growth above the surface, the plant is hard at work establishing a foundation that will support its future rapid growth. This underground development can last for several years, varying depending on the species. What they don’t tell you in soccer development terms: growth can be silent and invisible.
Growth Stage: Ready to Soar
Once the root system is well-established, the bamboo plant enters a phase of rapid growth. The stems emerge from the ground and can grow several inches or even several feet per day! Development is taking shape. Trust the process.
This rapid growth is due to a unique process:
Cellular Level
Unlike trees that grow by producing new cells at their tips, bamboo cells expand in length. Similar to Soccer: myelin is a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers in the human brain, much like the insulation around an electrical wire. When you practice a new skill, the brain sends signals along specific neural pathways. With repeated practice, myelin begins to accumulate around these pathways, making the signals stronger and faster. This process is similar to the way the bamboo’s root system develops before it shoots upward.
Stored Energy
The extensive root system developed during the initial stage provides the energy and nutrients needed for this rapid elongation. Just as a strong root system enables rapid bamboo growth, increased myelination in the human brain leads to improved skill execution. The thicker the myelin sheath, the more efficiently the signals travel, resulting in greater speed, accuracy, and fluency in performing soccer skill. In essence, myelin plays a crucial role in the brain’s ability to learn and master new skills.
Factors Influencing Growth Rate
Several factors can influence the rate of bamboo growth (or a developing soccer player):
Species
Different bamboo species have different growth rates. Some can grow several feet in a single day, while others grow more moderately. Similar to Soccer: players have a wide range of backgrounds, which can affect their developmental rate. Good habits and keeping the game fun is all too important.
Climate
Warm temperatures, ample rainfall, and fertile soil can promote faster growth. Similar to Soccer: creating the environment for player development is important.
Age
As the plant matures and its root system expands, it becomes capable of supporting faster growth. Similar to Soccer: age is another factor that affects maturity and development, as it relates to the mind (smarts) and the body (strength) to bring it all together to become a more effective player.
TLDR
The apparent slow start in bamboo growth is due to the plant’s focus on developing a robust root system. Once this foundation is in place, the bamboo can utilize its stored energy for rapid cell elongation, resulting in its characteristic fast vertical growth.
What They Won’t Tell You
Transferring game skills from the training ground to a competitive match is hard work! Similar to bamboo, it takes years for most players to build internal belief and external trust to coordinate with teammates to become an effective player. The overnight success is years in the making. Advice: Set a big goal. Take small steps to achieve the goal. Trust the process and remember, it will happen: “Slowly, then suddenly.”
